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"Bill puts plenty of pressure on me in practice," Gostkowski said. "If it ever came down to it [a game-winning field goal], believe me, I'm ready."

That's because when he's lining up for those simulated game-winning kicks in practice, it is not uncommon for a coach's whistle to come flying at him, seemingly out of nowhere, as he's about to boot the ball through the uprights. The whistle might hit him in the leg. Or the shoulder. Maybe even graze his cheek.

Funny. Usually after that happens, Gostkowski can't help but notice the whistle that was around Belichick's neck moments earlier has disappeared.